Easy Chicken Spaghetti with Rotel

This easy chicken spaghetti recipe with Rotel is a quick and delicious weeknight dinner option. The combination of tender chicken, creamy cheese sauce, and the zesty kick from Rotel tomatoes makes it a family favorite. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd or for meal prep, ensuring you’ll have a tasty and satisfying meal ready in no time.

Ingredients:

• 3 cups boneless skinless chicken breasts, cooked and diced
• 16 ounces spaghetti noodles, broken into 3 pieces
• 21 ounces cream of chicken soup (two 10.5-ounce cans)
• 10 ounces can of RoTel tomatoes (with green chiles, undrained)
• 6 ounces cream cheese
• 3 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
• 10 ounces evaporated milk
• 1 tablespoon ranch dressing (dry mix)

Directions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray, set aside.
2. Cook the Spaghetti: Cook the spaghetti noodles in well-salted water according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
3. Prepare the Sauce: In a large pot, combine the Rotel tomatoes (undrained), cream of chicken soup, evaporated milk, and cream cheese. Heat over low heat, stirring constantly, until the cheese has melted.
4. Mix Everything Together: Add the powdered ranch dressing, diced chicken, and cooked pasta to the pot. Mix well.
5. Assemble the Casserole: Pour the mixture into the prepared casserole dish and top with shredded cheddar cheese.
6. Bake the Casserole: Bake uncovered for 20 to 30 minutes or until heated through and the dish is hot and bubbly.
7. Broil for a Golden Top: For a golden brown top, place the casserole under the broiler for 3-4 minutes.

Nutritional Information

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Calories: 400 per serving
• Servings: 8 servings

Serving and Storage Tips:

Serving Tips

• Garnish for Extra Flavor: Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chopped green onions on top before serving to add a touch of freshness and color.
• Side Dishes: Serve with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. Garlic bread also pairs wonderfully with this dish.
• Adjusting Spice Level: If you prefer a milder dish, use a can of mild Rotel tomatoes. For extra heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or using the hot variety of Rotel.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: To freeze, let the casserole cool completely. Portion into freezer-safe containers or wrap the entire casserole tightly with plastic wrap and foil. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
• Reheating: When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen. Reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through, approximately 20-25 minutes. Individual portions can be reheated in the microwave.

These tips will help you make the most of your delicious chicken spaghetti with Rotel, whether you’re enjoying it fresh or as leftovers!

Variations:

1. Mediterranean Twist: Add olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and feta cheese to give the dish a Mediterranean flair.

2. Buffalo Chicken: Toss cooked chicken with buffalo sauce before adding it to the casserole for a spicy kick.

3. Tex-Mex Style: Mix in black beans, corn, and taco seasoning for a Tex-Mex inspired version.

4. Italian-Inspired: Use marinara sauce instead of cream of chicken soup, and add Italian seasoning, mozzarella cheese, and diced tomatoes for an Italian twist.

5. Pesto Chicken: Stir in pesto sauce along with the cream cheese for a flavorful and aromatic variation.

6. Bacon and Broccoli: Add cooked and crumbled bacon and steamed broccoli florets for a hearty and satisfying meal.

7. Hawaiian Chicken: Incorporate diced pineapple and ham for a sweet and savory Hawaiian flavor profile.

8. Spinach and Artichoke: Mix in chopped spinach and canned artichoke hearts for a creamy and indulgent spinach artichoke chicken spaghetti.

9. Lemon Garlic Chicken: Sauté minced garlic in butter and mix it with lemon juice and zest for a bright and tangy sauce.

10. Asian Fusion: Add soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil for an Asian-inspired twist. Top with sliced green onions and sesame seeds before serving.

11. Curry Chicken: Incorporate curry powder, coconut milk, and chopped cilantro for a fragrant and exotic flavor profile.

12. Cheesy Bacon Ranch: Add cooked bacon pieces and ranch seasoning mix to the sauce for a creamy and indulgent twist.

13. Greek Chicken: Mix in chopped Kalamata olives, diced tomatoes, and crumbled feta cheese for a taste of the Mediterranean.

14. Caprese Style: Use cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, and balsamic glaze to create a Caprese-inspired chicken spaghetti.

15. Sausage and Peppers: Replace the chicken with cooked Italian sausage and sautéed bell peppers and onions for a hearty and savory option.

16. Green Chile Chicken: Use canned green chiles instead of Rotel tomatoes for a milder, Southwestern-inspired version.

17. Spinach and Mushroom: Add sautéed mushrooms and chopped spinach for a nutritious and earthy twist.

18. Chipotle Chicken: Stir in chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for a smoky and spicy kick.

19. Teriyaki Chicken: Coat cooked chicken in teriyaki sauce and pineapple chunks for a sweet and savory Asian-inspired dish.

20. White Bean and Chicken: Mix in canned white beans, garlic, and rosemary for a hearty and comforting meal.

21. Cajun Chicken: Season the chicken with Cajun seasoning and add bell peppers, onions, and celery for a flavorful Cajun twist.

22. Smoked Gouda and Bacon: Mix in shredded smoked Gouda cheese and crispy bacon for a rich and smoky flavor.

These variations allow you to customize the easy chicken spaghetti with Rotel to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs, making it a versatile and adaptable dish for any occasion.

FAQs:

1. Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe? Yes, using leftover cooked chicken, such as rotisserie chicken, is a great way to save time and add flavor.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time? Absolutely. You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

3. How do I prevent the spaghetti from becoming mushy? Cook the spaghetti just until al dente according to the package directions. It will continue to cook slightly in the oven.

4. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of Rotel? While Rotel tomatoes add a unique zesty flavor, you can use fresh tomatoes and a can of diced green chiles as a substitute.

5. Is there a dairy-free version of this recipe? Yes, you can use dairy-free cream cheese, dairy-free cheddar cheese, and a dairy-free cream of chicken soup substitute to make this dish dairy-free.

6. What can I use instead of evaporated milk? You can substitute regular milk, half-and-half, or heavy cream in place of evaporated milk for a creamier texture.

7. Can I add more vegetables to this casserole? Definitely. Feel free to add vegetables like peas, carrots, or broccoli to increase the nutritional content.

8. How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or in a 350°F oven until warmed through.

9. Can I freeze this casserole? Yes, you can freeze the casserole. After baking, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

10. What other types of pasta can I use? You can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, rotini, or elbow macaroni. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

In conclusion, this easy chicken spaghetti with Rotel is a versatile and flavorful dish perfect for busy weeknight dinners or meal prepping. With simple ingredients and various customization options, it’s a family favorite that can be tailored to suit any taste. Enjoy this delicious casserole fresh, as leftovers, or even frozen for future meals!